Fun facts about Amsterdam and tourism

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. It was originally founded in the 12th century as a fishing village. It received his name from the Amstel River and the dam that was built to avoid the floods from the South Sea. Herring and beer trade with free passage helped Amsterdam to grow and earn an important role in trade worldwide. Last year Amsterdam tourism brought over 17 million people to the city.

Amsterdam Tourism - Fun Facts

Inhabitants

834,713

Nationalities

180

Bicycles

881,000

Percentage of people who cycle daily

58%

Parks

50

Ferry routes

9

Markets

38

Canals

165

Bridges

1,281

Houseboats

2,500

Windmills

8

Museums

75

Concerts and theatrical performances per day

25

Theatres and concert halls

55

Cafés and bars

1,515

Restaurants

1,325

Most visited city in the world

So how did Amsterdam become one of the most-visited cities in the world? Well, Amsterdam is a gorgeous city. It conjures up images of tulips, canals, houseboats, and museums. The city’s wealth made it a main attraction, an opportunity to experience the finer things in life. Many famous painters lived in Amsterdam, and you can find many famous works of art in the museums here. Of course, nowadays Amsterdam’s tourism is based on its image as a party capital. Amsterdam’s tourism contributes largely to its wealth today.

Amsterdam Tourism Today

Today, people come to Amsterdam to see exquisite streets, decorated with flowers, and separated by canals. But tourists also come to Amsterdam just to have a good time. Presently, much of Amsterdam tourism is based on the coffee shops and the Red Light District. It’s true that marijuana and prostitution are both legal in Amsterdam, although there are strict regulations on both.

Although these industries bring Amsterdam tourism, they are not as highly visited by local Dutch people.

Amsterdam Tourism & the Red Light District

Amsterdam is perhaps most famous for the Red Light District – women in lingerie, dancing in the windows, inviting men in. Much of Amsterdam’s tourism is based on this phenomenon. It’s also widely believed that it’s a good profession here, since the government regulates the industry.

However, a large percentage of the women are trafficked or manipulated. When you know what’s going on behind the windows, you might think twice about visiting that part of the city.

Amsterdam Tourism and Burgeoning Cultural Diversity

A country renowned for its tolerance and welcoming attitude, Amsterdam is one of the few countries that has a coalition government, where everyone’s views are respected and represented. With over 180 nationalities residing in the city, Amsterdam is as diverse as they come. People come to Amsterdam for the international atmosphere. Amsterdam tourism attracts visitors from all over the globe.